Department of Labor Offers Guidance After Supreme Court Decision

In June of this year, the United States Supreme Court ruled in a landmark case that found Section Three of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) to be unconstitutional and in violation of the liberties provided under the Fifth Amendment. In September, the Department of Labor (DOL) issued guidance concerning employee benefit plans as they […]

Handling Matters of Catastrophic Injury

The shock of a serious injury can bring a life and a family to a halt. Whether in a car wreck, a fall or other accident, understanding a new normal is devastating for the patient and family alike. Severe personal injury can be disabling and end the ability to earn a livelihood. A catastrophic injury […]

Negotiating Settlement of a Disability Claim

Whether you purchased a disability plan or were provided coverage by an employer-sponsored plan, now you need the coverage. Dealing with sudden or gradual disability is challenging, especially if the condition reduces or eliminates your ability to support your current standard of living. Opportunities to settle your disability claim occur throughout the claims and payment […]

Ski Law in New York

Ski injuries are common. New York has a ski statute that requires that both the skier and the operator of the ski area act responsibly when engaging in the sport or providing the ability to engage in the sport. The law details the obligations of both parties. Under the law, skiers must abide by a […]

Will New Truck Safety Regulations Prevent Drowsy Driving Accidents?

Trucks accidents are some of the most devastating on the road, in large part due to the sheer size and weight of the vehicle. In 2011, more than 3,700 people were killed in large truck crashes, while 88,000 were injured, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. To improve truck safety, the federal government […]

Do You Travel One of New York’s Most Deadly Roads for Pedestrian Accidents?

While other traffic fatalities are declining, deadly pedestrian crashes increased in 2011. On average, a pedestrian was killed every two hours and injured every eight minutes in traffic crashes, according to the National Transportation Safety Administration. The risk of a pedestrian accident varies by location and other factors. Urban environments, non-intersections and nighttime conditions pose […]

Regulators Offer New Ways to Stay on Top of Recalled Products

Manufacturers, distributors and retailers are required to make sure that products meet certain safety standards. Yet more than 1,000 toys, drugs, motor vehicles and household goods are recalled every year. Thankfully, the federal government is making it easier for consumers to stay informed about these dangerous products. Most recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration […]

New NY Law to Address Commercial Drivers’ Cell Phone Use

As the recent tragic train crash in Spain made clear, using a cell phone and driving a commercial vehicle can be a deadly combination. The train operator was so distracted by his cell phone conversation with co-worker that he approached a turn at nearly double the legal speed limit, killing 79 passengers. In the United […]